Comprehensions for Practice

Passage 1: The Fading Symphony of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs, once teeming with vibrant life, are facing a silent crisis. Rising ocean temperatures,
caused by climate change, are triggering coral bleaching – a process where stressed corals
expel the algae that provide them with sustenance and color. This leaves them pale and
vulnerable, leading to reef death. The consequences are dire; coral reefs are not just beautiful
underwater landscapes; they are vital ecosystems that support a quarter of all marine life. Their
decline disrupts food chains, threatens fisheries, and weakens coastal protection against waves
and storms.

Questions:

1. What is the main cause of coral bleaching?

2. How does coral bleaching affect coral reefs?
3. Why are coral reefs important to the marine environment?
4. What is the implied consequence of declining coral reefs?
5. What is the tone of the passage? (Informative, persuasive, etc.)

Passage 2: The Unexpected Benefits of Curiosity

Curiosity, the relentless urge to explore and understand, is often seen as a childish trait.
However, recent research suggests it may be the key to lifelong learning and innovation. A
curious mind is constantly seeking new information, questioning assumptions, and venturing
outside its comfort zone. This openness allows for the generation of creative solutions and
fosters a love of learning that persists well into adulthood. Studies have shown a correlation
between curiosity and academic achievement, problem-solving skills, and even mental well-
being. So, the next time you find yourself asking "why" or "how," embrace that inquisitiveness –
it might just be your superpower.

Questions:

1. How is curiosity traditionally viewed?

2. According to the passage, what are the benefits of a curious mind?
3. What evidence does the passage provide to support the importance of curiosity?
4. What is the main point the author is trying to convey?
5. What does the phrase "might just be your superpower" imply?

Passage 3: The Paradox of Choice

Psychologist Barry Schwartz argues that having too many choices can be detrimental. In his
book "The Paradox of Choice," he suggests that an overwhelming array of options can lead to
analysis paralysis, decision fatigue, and ultimately, dissatisfaction with the final choice. When
faced with countless possibilities, individuals can become paralyzed by fear of making the
wrong decision. This decision fatigue can lead to a decline in overall happiness and a sense of
powerlessness in the face of abundant options.
1. What is the central argument presented by Barry Schwartz?
2. What is the term used to describe the state of being overwhelmed by too many choices?
3. How does analysis paralysis impact decision-making according to the passage?
4. Does having a wider range of options always lead to dissatisfaction, based on the information
provided?
5. What are some potential consequences of decision fatigue?

Passage 4: The Rise of Citizen Science

Citizen science involves the participation of the public in scientific research. From birdwatchers
collecting data on migration patterns to enthusiasts classifying galaxies in online projects, citizen
science allows researchers to gather massive datasets and tackle complex problems. This
collaborative approach fosters scientific discovery, engages the public in research, and can
even lead to the identification of entirely new phenomena. Citizen science projects can range
from simple observations to sophisticated data analysis, making them accessible to people of all
backgrounds and skill levels.

1. How does citizen science contribute to scientific research according to the passage?
2. Briefly describe two examples of citizen science projects mentioned.
3. What are some potential benefits of citizen science beyond scientific discovery?
4. Does citizen science require a high level of scientific expertise to participate?
5. Can you think of another example of a citizen science project?

Passage 5: The Fungal Frontier

Fungi, the inconspicuous decomposers of the natural world, are emerging as unlikely heroes in
the fight against climate change. Their complex networks of filaments, known as mycelium, can
weave through soil, binding particles and promoting healthy plant growth. This leads to
increased carbon sequestration, where carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is stored in the soil.
Research suggests that promoting fungal growth through methods like inoculating plants with
beneficial fungi could be a powerful tool for mitigating climate change.

1. What is the main role fungi play in the natural world, according to the passage?
2. How do fungal networks contribute to fighting climate change?
3. What is the scientific term used for the capture of atmospheric carbon dioxide?
4. Based on the passage, is human intervention proposed to promote fungal growth?
5. Briefly explain the potential benefit of inoculating plants with beneficial fungi.

Passage 6: The Empathy Machine

Mirror neurons, a class of brain cells discovered in the 1990s, have sparked debate about the
neurological basis of empathy. These neurons fire not only when we perform an action but also
when we observe someone else doing it. Some scientists believe this allows us to understand
and share the emotions of others. However, critics argue that mirror neurons may simply be
involved in motor learning or imitation, not necessarily empathy. Further research is needed to
determine the true role of mirror neurons in our social and emotional lives.

1. What is the scientific discovery that has fueled discussions about empathy?
2. Describe the key function of mirror neurons as explained in the passage.
3. What is the opposing viewpoint regarding the role of mirror neurons?
4. Does the passage definitively prove mirror neurons are the source of empathy?
5. What is suggested for a clearer understanding of mirror neurons and empathy?

Passage 7: The Unexpected Architects

While humans have long been credited with impressive feats of engineering, some of the most
resilient and awe-inspiring structures are built by nature itself. Termite mounds in Africa can
tower over 20 feet tall, boasting complex ventilation systems and temperature regulation.
Beavers meticulously construct dams that can span hundreds of feet, altering entire
ecosystems. These natural constructions demonstrate the ingenuity of the animal kingdom and
challenge our anthropocentric view of the world.

1. According to the passage, what traditional view is being challenged?

2. Provide an example of a natural structure with a remarkable feature.
3. Briefly describe the engineering feat beavers accomplish through dam construction.
4. What is the main point of comparing human and natural engineering in this passage?
5. What is the term used to describe a perspective centered on human importance?

Passage 8: The Honeycomb

Honeybees are known for their delicious honey, but their hives are also marvels of engineering.
Made from beeswax, which worker bees produce, the honeycomb is a hexagonal structure that
provides the perfect home for the queen bee, developing bees, and honey stores. Each
hexagon is incredibly strong and uses minimal material, making it a very efficient design.

Questions:

1. What is the main product honeybees are known for?

2. What material do honeybees use to build their hives?
3. What shape are the cells in a honeycomb?
4. Who lives in the honeycomb besides worker bees?
5. Why is the honeycomb design considered efficient?

Passage 9: Soccer Star

Mia dreamt of playing soccer professionally. Every day after school, she would practice
dribbling, passing, and shooting in the park. She joined the local team and quickly became their
star player. Mia faced challenges – tough opponents, bad weather, and even injuries. But she
never gave up on her dream. With hard work and dedication, Mia eventually earned a
scholarship to play soccer at a prestigious college.

Questions:

1. What is Mia's dream?

2. How did Mia practice her soccer skills?
3. What challenges did Mia face while pursuing her dream?
4. How did Mia's hard work pay off?
5. Where will Mia play soccer in college?

Passage 10: Recycling Power

Recycling is an important way to protect our environment. By reusing materials instead of

throwing them away, we reduce waste in landfills and conserve natural resources. Many things
can be recycled, such as paper, plastic bottles, and aluminum cans. Recycling these items
takes less energy than creating them from scratch, which helps fight climate change.

Questions:

1. What is the benefit of recycling?

2. What are some examples of materials that can be recycled?
3. Why does recycling use less energy than creating new materials?
4. How does recycling help fight climate change?
5. What is a landfill?